Artwork Page for Sword Guard (Tsuba) with Dragons, Tiger, Fish, and Palace

Details / Information for Sword Guard (Tsuba) with Dragons, Tiger, Fish, and Palace

Sword Guard (Tsuba) with Dragons, Tiger, Fish, and Palace

c. 1615–1868

Japan, possibly Edo period

(1615-1868)
Medium
iron
Measurements
Diameter: 8 cm (3 1/8 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of D. Z. Norton 1919.461
Public Domain
You can copy, modify, and distribute this work, all without asking permission. Learn more about CMA's Open Access Initiative.
Location
Not on view
Print
A circular iron sword guard features a vertically elongated central opening ribbed with horizontal lines. Two circular holes flank this center. Encircling the rim, relief carvings of a serpentine dragon with gold-colored scales curve across the top and left side. At the bottom right sits a tiger, and a gold-inlaid wheel rests at the base. Small gold accents highlight details against the dark metal, while intricate scrolls frame the interior.

Sword Guard (Tsuba) with Dragons, Tiger, Fish, and Palace

c. 1615–1868

Japan, possibly Edo period (1615-1868)

See Also

Visually Similar by AI

Contact Us

The information about this object, including provenance, may not be currently accurate. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please fill out the appropriate request form linked below:

Update or Correct Artwork Information

Imagery or Rights for Non-Open-Access Artworks

Report a Website Issue

Further Questions About This Artwork